LANGSTON (Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute)

LANGSTON is the non-profit arts organization that stewards the historic Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute (LHPAI) in Seattle’s Central District, led by Executive Director Tim Lennon. Named in honor of legendary Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes, the institute cultivates Black creative brilliance across theater, dance, music, and cinema.

Housed in a majestic 1915 landmark building at 17th & Yesler, LANGSTON serves as a sacred civic home for Black artistic expression. In deep fellowship with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s international program “Building Our Economic Wealth,” LANGSTON hosts major educational symposiums, Divine Nine cultural galas, and youth theater residencies with a dedicated Sisterhood Advantage.

Presenting the acclaimed annual Seattle Black Film Festival, mainstage theatrical productions, community open mics, and youth creative workshops, LANGSTON is a cultural cornerstone during Seattle’s June Black Dollar Days and Juneteenth commemorations. Community members can explore event schedules and purchase festival passes online.